Zarajeans, top and blazer (seem to have sold out online already!), Dolce and Gabbanabag, shoes and sunglasses Chanel

Although I am very excited for Spring (and it seems we’ve had first few little moments) I find this time of the year very tricky to dress for. Anyone else? It’s still very cold in the mornings but it starts warming up int the afternoons and you’re fed up with your winter coats but you still need something. My tip is definitely layering. AND Spring jackets.

I LOVE Chanel style tweed/boucle jackets and I have quite a few. My dream is to own a Chanel one one day, but for now I buy at least one every season at Zara. They are really one of the best places for nice jackets and blazers and I have quite a collection (few examples here, here and here.) I think they look just as chic with jeans as they do with dresses and you can easily dress them up or down. They are your best friend this time of the year.

When it’s still cool I put winter or trench coat on top (depending on the temperature) and when it warms up I just wear them with a simple top underneath or over dresses. I find them very versatile and keep buying more and more.

I don’t know how about you but I can’t go to Zara and leave empty handed. Like I said, every season I go and see their new jackets, but on my last trip I also picked up these cropped jeans and knitted top which is great for this time of year too (ok maybe not the jeans..). And there have been few trips since.. (guilty face). But Zara is great for updating your wardrobe for Spring without breaking the bank. The older I get the more I appreciate good quality and buying great timeless staples, but adding from high street you can tap into trends and mix and match with your classic pieces.

The downside to shopping at Zara is that thousands of other people will own the same thing. My tip to make your outfit different and more expensive is to add designer accessories. That’s where I invest my money into. I have a weakness for high end handbags but I really do believe they make the outfit. So even though all my clothes in this outfit are from Zara latest collection, I added my new favourite Dolce and Gabanna bag and Chanel slingback (that are the best shoes ever) and I believe that make the outfit stand out more.

What do you think? Do you like this look? What is your Spring must have?

Ok so I’m going to start with contradicting myself. Although I am SO ready for Spring and want to talk more about Spring trends and so on, I want to talk first about this coat, but hopefully it’s the last time this season I am talking about coats and from next post on it’ll be all SPRING, SPRING, SPRING.

The reason I want to talk about this coat is because a) I love it and b) it’s an alert for tall girls like me. I’m sorry if you don’t fall into that category but all tall girls will relate how difficult it is to buy certain things. People say things like you’re lucky because you’re tall and you can wear this and that but they don’t realise there’s many things we can’t wear. Or we can but they just don’t look right. One of the things that can be tricky is things with belts, The belts just sit in the wrong place on us and it doesn’t always work. And I love belted/wrap items because they give an illusion of a waist that is not very prominent on me..

Anyway I really wanted to buy a nice coat in the sales as an investment for next winter but also for the fact that by the time the sales come you have been already living in your coats for quite some time and you’re probably bored of them so it’s nice to add something fresh. I was looking at various places and that’s how I discovered Whistles. It’s not a place I’m used to shopping at (not sure why) but it turns out they’re good for taller girls. I tried few coats on in there and they fitted very well. The belts fit where they’re supposed to and they have some nice styles at reasonable prices (especially in sales). And since then few people confirmed to me that Whistles really is made for taller girls. So I’m going to explore it more..

And that’s me finished with winter now. I am totally over it now and literally cannot wait for the weather to warm up and start shedding layers. So I promise from now on I’ll be only sharing Spring looks. I’ve bought few new season pieces recently which I can’t wait to show you and I’m going to Barcelona next week which will be perfect opportunity to wear some of them. Bring it on! I want to start YouTube soon and will try to shoot something in the Spanish city so hopefully you’ll like it. I will tell you all about it nearer the time.

Another thing I wanted to share with you is my new found love for pyjama shirts. They’re becoming more and more popular and now I can see why. It’s interesting because I find them quite masculine and my style is very feminine, but you can actually wear them a feminine way and they’re so cool and comfy. I am a convert now. It started with this Joie one which I really liked since the first minute I saw it. I guess it was for obvious reasons (it’s pink), but I also like the print and there was simply something about it. Since then I’ve been eyeing others as well. There’s many of them around and although I wouldn’t wear the whole pyjama as outerwear look (although never say never) I’ll definitely be adding more of them to my wardrobe.

Do you like pyjama shirts? Do you/would you wear them out with the matching trousers? I’d love to know what you think.

Did you know there are eight restaurants in The Ned? If you don’t believe me, check here. And not only for this reason The Ned has quickly become my favourite place to hang out. These shots were taken in the Millie’s lounge over a delicious breakfast, but I’ve also had yummy brunch in the Malibu kitchen and and a great lunch at Zobler’s. And drinks in the bars several times.

The is just something about the Ned. I’ve been won over since the first time I came in. They have a live music most nights and it just has a very nice atmosphere. Often the music is jazz which I didn’t think I was a fan of but when it’s played at the Ned I can’t get enough. I can’t explain it but everything just seems right in there. It reminds me of New York (a place I keep meaning to visit in the near future again – it’s been too long) and I just think you can’t have a bad time at the Ned. And even the ladies room look amazing! we shot these photos there.

The building is beautiful from inside and out and I love the high ceilings. The decor varies throughout the place and you can truly find your perfect spot. And let’s get back to the fact that there is such a selection of places to eat. No matter what you fancy, you can find it in there.

THIS IS NOT A SPONSORED POST. I just genuinely love the place. Have you been yet?

And now about the outfit. How I would describe the Ned is that despite feeling very classy, it’s got a relaxed atmosphere and you can dress up or down.

This time I chose smart casual look with jeans and a cosy jumper (it was shot on a very cold day) but dressed it up with nice heels and my favourite Chanel bag. The beauty of Chanel is that it can dress up any outfit and even if you’re dressed quite casually, it just elevates the look. The best investment piece and definitely favourite piece in my wardrobe.

I’m not here to boast about my wonderful life (because we all have our ups and downs) but I feel the happiest I have in a very long time and I think it’s partially due to my way of thinking but also working on my happiness. So I want to share few tips with you. I believe in positive thinking and if you haven’t watched The Secret yet, you should!

As cliche as it sounds, I really believe happiness is a state of mind. Life is what you make it and if you’re just waiting for life to happen or give you what you think you deserve than you’re destined to fail. Think hard about what makes you happy and then go after it. Chase your dreams.

For me, things that make me happy are spending time with my friends and family, travelling, reading, going to exhibitions, exploring and doing new things. I’ve been really trying to do more of those this year and keeping myself busy. At the beginning of the year I decided I want to travel more (see the top destinations on my list here) and I’ve already booked two trips. And you can say yes but this costs money and I don’t have money etc.. It doesn’t have to be expensive! There are so many deals and offers around.

But maybe you’re not into travelling. There’s lot of things I enjoy that don’t cost anything. Like visiting museums. I must say we are very lucky in London because many museums and galleries are for free. I try not to take it for granted but make the most of it while I can. It’s so inspiring and there’s nothing better to do on a rainy day (we get a share few) than getting lost in the world of the Old Masters or Impressionists. Only recently I went to the National Gallery for the millionth time and came away feeling inspired. I usually share my visits on my instastories so if you’re into these things and are not following me on Instagram yet, what are you waiting for?

And if you’re feeling down and/or lazy and don’t want to leave the house? Listen to music, watch a movie or read a book! I recommend the Nutcracker soundtrack any time of the year. It always puts a smile on my face! And when it comes to a movie, I have watched Bridget Jones Baby more time than I can admit. It never ceases to cheer me up. Books – I have a few on the go. What I’m loving right now is Good night stories for rebel girls – 100 tales of extraordinary women. It’s so inspiring! I’m also a subscriber of Harper’s Bazaar and Porter magazines and really enjoy reading both. They have some great articles and feature dreamy fashion and editorials.

What are some things that make you happy?

I must admit the toughest thing for me is self love. It is very very important and as I’m approaching my 37th birthday I must admit I’ve become better at it but not a master. I definitely feel better in my skin and I’ve learnt to accept myself for who I am. I like the person I am but of course see things on my body that I don’t like. Us women we are often too harsh on ourselves and very critical. We concentrate on the things we don’t like rather than the things we like. And I’m trying every day to change that.

I changed the way I eat about this time last year and lost some weight and actually like the size I am. I just really want to tone up but find it hard to find time for exercise. I try to do yoga once or twice a week and walk as much as I can, but other than that I don’t exercise. And I realise how important it is. Healthy eating has made a huge difference for me ( I am good about 80% of the time and if I fancy pizza I will have pizza!) and maybe one day I’ll share a post about the changes I’ve made and what food I gave up but I’m actually eating loads, just good stuff and I feel much better. I think all these little things make a big difference on our wellbeing and happiness.

And when none of the above helps when I’m feeling down? I’m a big believer in treating yourself. And you don’t have to spend a fortune to do that. My favourite little treats are lipsticks, fresh flowers, books or a coffee and cake somewhere nice.

And may I recommend you a new coffee place I’ve just discovered in London? It’s called Saint Aymes coffee at 59 Connaught street where all these photos were taken. It’s very pretty and everything tastes delicious. But go quick before it gets busy because it’s super instagrammable and I’m expecting it to get crazy soon.

Good news beauty lovers! I am starting a new blog series this week about all things beauty, including make up and skincare. I was always into fashion, but in the last couple of years I have become kind of obsessed with beauty too. There are so many lotions and potions out there and I have been really enjoying trying new products and learning what works and what doesn’t. Obviously with beauty it’s all very relevant. Everyone needs different things and have different needs.

My skin is very dry and I am still looking for my holy grail moisturiser. There have been few that I have bought more than once but nothing that I couldn’t live without. I learnt couple of years ago the importance of a serum for a dry skin and that has definitely had a positive effect. I’ve tried and tested few and loved some of them, but am still on the look out for new ones. I have however found the perfect eye cream which I shared here and that’s one product that is on my can’t-live-without list.

When it comes to make up I am obsessed with lipsticks. I admit to having eyelash extensions done regularly which I love (and for someone who has deep set eyes like me they are the best thing ever) and as I don’t really like mascaras that’s my biggest beauty indulgence but totally money well spent. I don’t wear much eyeshadows but I do have few palettes with some nice ones and I love blushers and highlighters and have a few palettes with those ones too (like this one).

So there’s load to coming up. I’ve managed to accumulate quite a big collection and I can’t wait to share it with you. I will be probably doing this post monthly possibly more often depending how popular it is and how often there is something I really want to share.

I am definitely no expert in beauty but I think that over the years I have learnt a thing or two but mostly I want to show you products that I genuinely love.

What is your favourite beauty product? Have you got any favourite beauty brand?

Ok I admit these photos were taken few months ago when there were still leaves on the ground, so they may seem irrelevant. But a) January is not that photogenic and the weather we have been having lately has been awful and b) I live in jumper dresses from early autumn, all throughout winter until early Spring. So I have worn this or very similar outfit many times since we took these photos.

But what I want to be talking about today is not what I’m wearing but what I’m planning to do this year, or more specifically where I’m planning to go. Yes January is depressing and seems never ending that’s why I’ve already started thinking about where I want to visit this year and I already booked two trips. I’ve been a busy girl who needs something to look forward to!

There are five main destinations I would like to cover in 2018. Two are places I’ve been before and three are completely new for me. So let’s start with what I booked already:

Barcelona – I must say overall Spain doesn’t appeal to me that much. I don’t know why. I’ve always been drawn to Italy and France much more. But Barcelona looks amazing and some of the architecture there is unbelievable. I am going mid-March for a long weekend and I am actually getting pretty excited. I’ve been looking on Instagram for some inspiration and have found many places I’d like to see while I’m there. Apart from the obvious like Park Guell and Sagrada Familia I’ve found out there is an Arc of Triumph that certainly rivals the one in Paris and I’ve even found pink palace that I simply must see! I can’t wait to share with you the trip later in March but in the meantime if you have been to Barcelona, feel free to give me any tips on places to eat, see and things to do.

Florence – for an art lover and someone who loves Italy as much as I do, it’s a surprise it’s taken me so long to visit Florence. It really should have been the number one, but better late than never. I’ve booked a trip for a 5 days in May and I cannot wait. There is so much to see in Florence not only when it comes to beautiful architecture and sights but it’s a place where Renaissance was born and the art on display there is just out of this world. Botticelli and his Birth of Venus is one of my favourite paintings and you can bet I will be visiting it in the Uffizi gallery. That’s one of the places I’m most excited to see. But I think I will love everything about Florence. And like I said I love Italy anyway, the food and everything else so this is a trip that literally can’t come quick enough.

Amsterdam – I’ve never been to Holland and have heard many good things about the capital. I also follow a blogger who’s from there and it looks so pretty. I think I want to go for a long weekend. I want to check out the architecture and there are some interesting museums to see too. Haven’t booked anything yet, but this should definitely happen this year.

New York City – I visited in 2010 (which seems like a century ago) and have been meaning to go back ever since. For one reason or another it hasn’t happened yet but it’s a top top of my list. I’m thinking about going in September because that’s a good time to travel to most places and the weather is usually very pleasant or I’m tempted to wait and go before Christmas to see all the Christmas decorations. The only problem with that is the unpredictable weather. NYC is know for its blizzards and I wouldn’t want to have any issues with flights and also I’m not a big fan of “winter” holidays, if anything I prefer to chase the sun. But hopefully I can plan something because I really love New York and I feel I actually haven’t done that much last time I went. Plus it was so long ago it’s definitely time to go back.

Paris – yes I’ve been to Paris many times already but there is so much more to see. For example (and you won’t believe this) I still haven’t been inside the Louvre. The reason being I know when I go there it will kill good part of a day and there have been many places I wanted to see prior to doing that. But it has to be done. And also many other things. What I love about living in London is that it’s so easy to jump on a Eurostar and be in Paris in few hours. I went many time for one day only and you can do a lot even in a day. There will definitely be more day trips this year. I just can’t get enough of the French Capital.

I also want to explore more of the UK. I love the British country side and for example I still haven’t been to Devon or Cornwall and I heard they are both beautiful. There is just so much to see in the world and I want to see it all.

What are your travel plans for this year? Have you booked any holidays yet? What are your favourite countries to travel to?

Don’t you just love it when you get a great dress for a great price. Or any bargain for that matter. I mentioned it quite a few times that I like mixing high street and designer and when you get any of them for a good price it enjoy wearing them even more. Take this dress for example. Even at full price it was £29.99. Can you believe it?! Add a designer belt and you have an elevated outfit. The dress since went on sale on unfortunately now sold out online mostly but here’s a link anyway and hopefully you can get your size or maybe you can find it in one of Zara stores. If you do make sure you buy it because it’s so easy to dress up or down and wear for many different occasions.

And if you can’t find it don’t despair, I’ve linked few other nice options here:

Can’t go wrong with off the shoulder 1, I’m obsessed with the colour 2, great for evening and such a great price 3, I love a good shirt dress 4, stripes are always a good idea 5